You guys love to over complicate stuff. Just need a middle of the road rod that can be used for all trout applications. Doesn't need to be perfect at everything, but able to do everything to some extent. He lives 10 states away and has no idea we are getting it for him so there is no way he is going to have any input. He doesn't have any preference as of yet, because he is a novice and brand new to this. All he knows is that he wants a 9'5wt because that's what he was told was the best all around size by Orvis. We arent going to get him something cheap cause he won't like it. We want to spend like $300 on him so we are trying to figure out what the best rod for the situation is.

You are right and that is where I'm leaning...Sage Approach.

If this a long distance purchace I would go to Cabelas and buy from them They have some great package deasls, including some Winstons in about your price range and they will let you upgrade the reel if you pay the difference. The reason I suggest it is because they are great on returns. He can send back what you get him if he doesn't like it. Same with Orvis, though there he's locked into one brand. Either way though, he can try and then adjust. That said, I do love Sage, its hard to argue with them.

PS Let me say one more thing about the Redington CT. Don't be put off by the low price. Its not a cheap rod, Its just a great deal. If I were to go back to Yellowstone with just one of my rods, and I own Sage, Loomis, Fishers and Orvis, I would take the Ct. It is one hell of a rod at $75, the normal $150 or for $250. The only thing I would compare it to is a Winston or a Sage LL at many times the dollars.